Leave early to avoid city traffic and make the most of the day; the Bangalore→Madikeri drive via Mysore takes about 5.5–7 hours depending on stops and traffic.
Stop in Mysore for a classic South Indian breakfast — try soft dosas or idli with filter coffee at a popular local darshini; Mysore eateries typically open by 7:00–8:00am and give a quick, hearty start.
Enjoy authentic Coorg dishes like pandi curry (pork) and kadambuttu (rice dumplings) at Coorg Cuisine or a similar Madikeri restaurant; most sit-down restaurants are open midday and welcome groups.
Check into your homestay or plantation resort and freshen up; many homestays provide afternoon tea and can arrange evening plantation walks (confirm check-in time in advance).
Visit Raja’s Seat for manicured gardens and panoramic valley views — the park is generally open 6:30am–6:30pm and is ideal for late-afternoon photos and a relaxed stroll.
Take a guided short walk around a nearby coffee estate to learn about beans and processing followed by a tasting; many estates host visitors in the late afternoon, but always confirm availability and timing with the estate.
Choose a relaxed dinner at a well-reviewed spot in Madikeri (The Falls at Raintree or a trusted local place) to sample more regional dishes and unwind after the drive; dinner service commonly runs until 9:30–10:00pm.
Have a hearty homestay breakfast with fresh filter coffee and local items (idli/dosa or traditional Coorg breakfast) to fuel the day’s activities; many homestays serve breakfast from 6:30–9:00am.
Drive to Dubare (approx. 45–75 minutes from Madikeri depending on exact location) to arrive for the morning interaction sessions; the camp’s visitor activities generally run from about 8:00am onward and are best early in the day.
Participate in the guided elephant interaction (feeding, bathing and learning sessions) — Dubare’s program typically runs 8:00am–4:00pm but book slots in advance to secure group timing.
On the way back, optionally stop at the Namdroling Tibetan Monastery in Bylekuppe for a peaceful visit and photo opportunities; the monastery is generally open daily from early morning until evening.
Have lunch at a well-reviewed Kushalnagar restaurant offering local and multi-cuisine options; aim for a quick, filling meal before the afternoon adventure.
Enjoy river rafting with a licensed operator — rafting in Coorg is seasonal (operators usually run trips in the dry months; confirm availability and safety briefings when you book).
Relax with a walk on Nisargadhama island (bamboo groves, deer enclosure and riverside views) — the park typically opens around 8:30am and closes by 5:30pm, so plan for an afternoon visit.
Return to Madikeri and dine at a recommended place that serves both Coorg fare and popular group dishes; evening opening hours commonly extend to 9:30–10:00pm.
Enjoy an early breakfast at the homestay and a short guided plantation or birding walk near your accommodation; many estates are happy to host short morning walks from 6:00–8:00am.
Visit Abbey Falls for a brief walk and photos — Abbey Falls is typically open to visitors from about 9:00am–5:00pm, so timing your arrival around opening helps avoid crowds and ensures access to the viewing platforms.
Explore Madikeri Fort and the nearby market for local spices, coffee and souvenirs; shops are usually open by mid-morning and make a good quick last-minute shopping stop.
Have a late breakfast or early lunch at a recommended café or hotel restaurant (sample a final Coorg meal or hearty South Indian fare) before starting the return drive.
Start the drive back to Bangalore; expect roughly 5.5–7 hours depending on stops and traffic — plan a fuel/snack stop en route and keep refreshments handy for the car journey.
Break the journey with a highway stop (Maddur for the famous Maddur vada or a Mysore restaurant) for refreshments and to stretch — most highway restaurants are open all afternoon.
Unpack, settle payments for homestay/operators if any remain, and rest after the road trip. If you prefer not to arrive late, consider staying an extra night in Coorg next time.